Tyler's Story - JRDF Walk Video 2014

On the morning of his 5th birthday January 18, 2012, our son, Tyler, was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes (T1D). His glucose level was over 840 and he was in diabetic ketoacidosis. He is now insulin-dependent for the rest of his life.

As you probably know, insulin is not a cure; it is merely life support. Tyler is required to check his blood sugar level by pricking his tiny fingers at least 8-10 times per day and had to receive at least 5 shots of insulin per day. He has recently gotten on an insulin pump, which gives him insulin in a tube every 3 minutes, and requires infusion site changes every 2-3 days (this is the tube that is inserted into his skin where the insulin drips).

In addition to his rigorous blood testing and insulin shots, he must maintain a tightly controlled diet and scheduled food intake. Worst of all, this disease carries with it the risk of life-threatening complications, especially if not closely monitored.

Tyler is always a trooper and rarely complains. He is full of smiles, giggles, energy and love. He continually amazes us and is such a blessing to have in our lives as a daily reminder of spirit, love, happiness and a positive attitude.

There are many devastating diseases in our world right now. The difference with juvenile diabetes is that wiping it out of existence is extremely attainable and within reach. Tyler still asks us “Mommy, when will my diabetes go away? Will I have it forever?” It’s a painful question to answer looking into his hopeful eyes.

The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) is the #1 non-profit funder of diabetes research worldwide. One of their largest fundraising events is the Walk to Cure Diabetes. Our team, “Tyler’s Tornadoes”, will be attending this year’s walk for the first time, which will be held on Sunday, October 26th, at The Domain in Austin, Texas. Onsite registration opens at 9am, the walk begins at 11:30am, but you can pre-register and/or donate online today!

Please help us make a difference for Tyler and the millions of other children and adults living with this chronic disease.

DONATE ONLINE TO TYLER’S TORNADOES JDRF WALK TEAM AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Go to: jhttp://www2.jdrf.org/goto/tylerstornadoes and click on “Join this Team” to be a walker, or “Donate to this Team” button to contribute to our goal. Even if you aren’t going to make the walk, you can be a virtual walker and help us raise money for Tyler’s Tornadoes and JDRF. Because a CURE cannot come fast enough!

Additional information about Tyler’s Story and walk team plans may also be found at teamtyler.me